By Shannon Lukens.

 

United States Senator John Hickenlooper met with community and business leaders in Moffat County Tuesday, for a roundtable discussion. Senator Hickenlooper says Craig has “small-business energy.” He says there is time to get resources to transition into a more diversified economy with multiple industries, which includes the Trapper Business Park.

“That’s a great idea and I think we need to find a way to fund it and I think that’s part of my job, is to go to Washington and dig out those dollars and say, ‘All right. Here’s a community going through the worst experience of their life. How do we make it the best experience of that community’s life?’ and that’s what our goal should be.”

 

Jennifer Holloway is the Executive Director of the Craig Chamber.

“Discussing our future with small businesses, entrepreneurs, how can we work transportation into these changes as well as keeping our vision on outdoor rec and tourism. This small group had a chance to give input so it was really exciting to give him our direct input for our area.”

 

Senator Hickenlooper helped the Craig Chamber break ground on the new construction on the Yampa Building thanks to a $500,000 congressional spending grant. There will be a commissary style kitchen, elevator, and bathroom remodel. It should be finished in the spring.

 

Senator Hickenlooper then went on to Steamboat Springs last night for a Town Hall at CMC.

Senator Hickenlooper acknowledged a divide between urban and rural areas of our country. He said bills don’t always support the rural communities. As for Ukraine, he says he is “all in.” He believes Vladimir Putin is deranged and incredibly dangerous to the world. He said we should continue to provide support to Ukraine. He said the world will be a better place with Russia is neutralized.

Senator Michael Bennet was also in Craig, touring the Trapper Mine Tuesday.

Both Senators Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet are in Steamboat Springs for the Colorado Water Congress Summer Conference Wednesday. Governor Polis is also coming to Steamboat Springs for the Water Congress. He will also meet with Heritage Park Preschool and Steamboat Montessori to help celebrate the launch of Colorado’s free universal preschool.